The perfect deck and patio can give you the appeal you want
Summer is the perfect time to consider expanding, or revitalizing, your backyard space. Whether you enjoy entertaining and are looking to add a beautiful deck or patio, or simply want to relax in an oasis that is quiet and serene, there are countless ways to transform your space.
A new deck or patio can be the perfect gathering place, adding a new dimension to your yard and creating space you never knew you had. A well-planned outdoor living space can become a homeowner’s backyard getaway; however, with the wrong materials and design, a deck or patio can end up as unused dead space. Spend some time researching what style will be most advantageous to what you are trying to achieve in your space, and what materials will not only stand the test of time, but also give you the aesthetic appeal you want.
Here are a few ideas to help you plan the direction of your outdoor space:
Budget
Before you get ahead of yourself, have a frank discussion about what you want to spend on your outdoor entertainment area. There are countless pictures available online of gorgeous outdoor projects that most likely require an extensive investment.
Step back and evaluate what parts of these dream backyard spaces are truly the most intriguing to you, and think
about whether you can accomplish these looks for less.
Establishing a budget first may be the difference between you becoming discouraged and not doing anything at all, or ending up spending way more than you should have.
Size and purpose
First, decide how much space you need and what you will be using the space for.
Will your new deck or patio be for personal use only, entertaining large quantities of people, or hosting intimate groups of family and friends?
Also, try to envision what type of furniture you will want to incorporate in the space.
An oversized sofa may consume too much space for the limited seating you would need.
Think outside the box and look for trendy pieces of furniture that offer comfort, ample seating and the aesthetic appeal that can start a conversation.
Materials
After you’ve determined the size and purpose of your entertainment area, you will need to determine what kind of material to use.
If you have a limited number of steps from your home, the flexibility of what materials are available broaden: concrete, pavers/hardscape, wood/composite.
If you have a walkout basement, or a lot of space between your outside door and the ground, a wood/composite deck may be your only option.
Depending on which material you choose, the cost associated will directly affect the budget of your project, so think about where you will get the best bang for your buck, while not compromising your vision.
Wood decks offer flexibility with finishing options, from a pressuretreated wood deck that you can stain, to a composite material that will hold up well over time. Concrete can be stained and stamped to create unique patterns as well.
Amenities
A big trend right now in outdoor living areas are outdoor kitchens. These outdoor kitchens don’t have wood cabinets, but are instead made of hardscaping materials that incorporate sinks with running water and builtin counter space – you can even build a small cabana or tiki bar to really impress your friends. Adding some shade may also be a good idea.
Whether you build a covered area into the structure or add an awning, pergola or gazebo, there are a number of options to choose from. Fire pits are also a hot number right now, but will have limitations due to the base material for your outdoor living area.
Outdoor areas with a lavish deck or patio, stunning
fire pit, water feature and show-stopping landscaping will be a musthave on many buyers’ list when they consider purchasing a new home.
It’s great to consider the resale value on your investment before starting – think through what trends have really taken off in today’s market, and see if some of those will fit nicely in your space.
If you need inspiration or more information on creating the outdoor space of your dreams, visit the 2018 Homearama Touring Edition presented by Vectren. If you are considering building a home, purchasing a new home, or wish to spruce up your existing home, then you will not want to miss out on Homearama!
Outdoor areas with a lavish deck or patio, stunning fire pit, water feature and show-stopping landscaping will be a must-have on many buyers’ list when they consider purchasing a new home.